As final exams approach and the days grow colder, there is another trial that Carleton students may have to put up with: the flu.
Carleton’s pharmacy and walk-in clinic are preparing for the coming flu season, although the flu is not expected to be as severe as last year’s H1N1 strain.
“We provide the flu vaccine to any students, staff or faculty that want it. We have three clinics per week all term,” said Patty Allen, health educator at Carleton.
Last year, the flu received more attention due to the H1N1 strain, with the university taking extra precautions and advising several sick students to stay in residence.
Literature about colds and the flu is available at the door to the clinic, as well as free hand sanitizer.
The close-quarters lifestyle of many students, especially those who live on residence, increases the risk of contracting the virus, according to Allen.
“Wash your hands frequently. Cough in your sleeve. Don’t touch your face. [Keeping] healthy overall with enough sleep, a good diet and exercise will keep the immune system strong,” said Allen in response to what measures students should take to avoid the virus.
“This year’s flu shot is a double cocktail of the H1N1 vaccine developed last year and the regular flu shot, even though the reappearance of H1N1 is not expected,” said Sue Alderson, director of pharmacy services at the Juravinski Cancer Centre at Hamilton Health Sciences.
“This year should be pretty busy, but should not be as busy as last year due to the reactions to H1N1,” said Brian Stowe, owner and pharmacist of the on-campus pharmacy.
The pressure of this year’s flu season may not be to scale with last year, but health services on campus said they are prepared all the same.
According to the health and counselling services website, flu shots are available at Health and Counselling Services, room. 2600, Technology and Training Centre.